When I was in first through third grade, whenever it was a sunny day and I was with a friend, it meant one thing and only one thing: It was that lemonade stand time. What could be better on a hot day than cold citrusy lemonade and a nice little stand?? Although I hate to admit we rarely baked our own cookies or made our own lemonade, it still was a fun time that is now pretty iconic for me. However, I’m ready to give the lemonade stand a makeover, taking classic lemon, water and sugar to new heights, with herbs, spices and all sorts of fun stuff. I’m not sure how first grade Romilly would feel about this, but I’m certainly excited now! I can promise you this, you will never be satisfied with plain jane lemonade again.

Ginger Mint Lemonade

Super simple, incredibly refreshing!

5 slices fresh ginger, skin on.

1 cup of sugar

4 cups of water

1 cup lemon juice

1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

ice

Directions:

In a sauce pan, place 1 cup of sugar, ginger and 1 cup of water; let simmer on low heat until it forms a syrup-like consistency.

In a large pitcher, place 3 cups of water, 1 cup of lemon juice 1 cup of mint leaves and 1/2 cup of ginger simple syrup. (You may have to add more based on your preference of sweetness.) Stir well, making sure to muddle the mint, add ice and serve cold!

Strawberry Thyme Lemonade

1 cup fresh strawberries

3 fresh ginger slices

4 thyme sprigs

1 cup of sugar

4 cups of water

1 cup of lemon juice

Crushed Ice

Directions

In a sauce pan, place strawberries, water, sugar, ginger and thyme and cook slowly on medium – low heat until it forms a syrup. Set aside and let cool.

In a pitcher, place crushed ice, lemon, remaining water and 1 cup of strawberry simple syrup. Enjoy!

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